AN HISTORIC Liverpool nightclub is facing a court battle to stay open after complaints from neighbours about noise.

The Blue Angel, which opened in 1939, will apply for its entertainment licence to be renewed tomorrow - but campaigners have vowed to make sure that doesn't happen.

The popular student venue has faced escalating complaints over the past year from people who have bought newly-built flats in the area around Seel Street.

The licensing hearing will take place tomorrow morning at Liverpool magistrates' court. Police will make representations before the court to voice concerns about the noise levels on the premises.

One resident, who asked not to be named said: "The noise coming from that place is ridiculous.

"Every night of the week we are kept awake by the music and shouting and it needs to be stopped."

The licensee, Valerie Davies, said: "We are not just going to lie down and die. This club has been here since 1939 and it is an institution.

"How can we be in the wrong, when the flats have only just been built?

"We were here first and if people do not like the noise then they should not have bought property so close toa nightclub.

"If they did not like trains would they have moved next to a train station?"

The club has the widespread support of Liverpool ' s student population.

A website has been set up to highlight the closure threat and 2,000 students have signed a petition calling for the club to be preserved.

Dental student Bal Balaggan said: "If it is shut down then it is a disgrace.

"The move will force many students to go socialising elsewhere, in places that are far too expensive and nowhere near as much fun. The place is part of Liverpool culture and we will all unite to stop the closure."